Explore Canoeing at Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Alberta

When visiting Banff National Park in the summer, one of the quintessential Canadian bucket list items is to canoe Lake Louise. The emerald waters of Lake Louise reflect the imposing Victoria Glacier, and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has been a proud landmark for 100 years.

We were excited to get on the glacier lake in Alberta, although we were a bit nervous about canoeing on Lake Louise. It is nearly impossible to capsize in a canoe, but the water temperature hovers around freezing, making it essential to stay cautious.

Lake Louise Canoe Adventure

This locale is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful settings in Canada. It’s no surprise that Canada’s national park system started here in Banff National Park. With the majestic Rocky Mountains surrounding us, we were eagerly looking forward to paddling on Lake Louise for the first time.

Lake Louise is situated just an hour’s drive from the Calgary Airport, with an additional 40-minute drive to reach the lake itself. With our rental car packed, we were ready to explore one of Canada’s premier tourist attractions.

Lake Louise was first discovered in 1882 when surveyors followed First Nations guides to the glacier. Recognizing the uniqueness of this location, a chalet was constructed in 1890, making it one of Canada’s most iconic sites since then.

When to Visit Lake Louise

Lake Louise is a year-round destination. We have visited in summer, winter, spring, and fall. In winter, the lake freezes, transforming into one of the most stunning skating rinks in the world!

Although crowds are fewer in winter and during the shoulder seasons, the foot traffic begins to rise in April and peaks by late September. Consequently, summer is indeed the busiest season in Banff National Park and all around Alberta, making it the best time to enjoy canoeing on Lake Louise.

Go Early in the Morning to Lake Louise

If you wish to enjoy the lake without the bustling crowds, arriving early in the morning is key. Sunrise paddles are available, so it’s worth checking in with the Fairmont for more information.

Parking fills up quickly, but if you arrive at sunrise, securing a spot will be easy. While waiting for boat rentals to open, consider hiking around the lake on the Lake Louise Loop (4km) or savoring a cup of coffee at the Fairmont Hotel.

National Park Pass

Be sure to purchase your national park pass in advance as the parking lots are strictly monitored. Being in the heart of Banff National Park, it’s essential to display your parks receipt on your windshield. You can buy it at kiosks on Highway 1 upon entering the park or order it online in advance.

Canoe Lake Louise – An Authentic Canadian Moment

Canoeing on Lake Louise comes with a steep price tag. It costs $125 Canadian Dollars (about $100 USD depending on exchange rates) for one hour and an additional $115 for each half hour thereafter.

This price accommodates up to three people, so splitting the costs can make it more manageable. Although it seems costly, canoeing is undeniably a quintessential Canadian experience—a rite of passage, if you will. During high school, we embarked on canoe trips each year to embrace life in the Canadian wilderness.

Canoeing in Canada is second to hockey!

We recommend dedicating a couple of hours to paddling on Lake Louise to fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding mountains and gain an up-close view of Victoria Glacier. However, an hour on the lake is sufficient for a delightful taste of canoeing in this captivating location.

The costs can accumulate quickly in Banff, so opting for an hour is reasonable, plus you’ll enjoy bragging rights for life saying, “I canoed in Canada!”

Crowds of Lake Louise

For that Instagram-worthy shot of Victoria Glacier reflecting in Lake Louise, arriving early in the morning is essential. As one of Canada’s most popular tourist spots, summer visits can be overwhelming, with numerous tours and buses frequenting its shore.

While visiting during the shoulder season is advisable, the temperatures can be cooler, and you may feel the lake’s chill.

After our initial visit to Banff, we understood the importance of arriving early, yet our first canoeing attempt was mid-day when the boardwalk was packed with numerous tourists.

Evenings are not ideal for capturing photos at Lake Louise, but late afternoons become perfect for canoeing once the tour buses have departed. Therefore, we highly recommend morning visits for the best picture-taking opportunities.

If you visit Lake Louise in early spring, be prepared for a possible frozen and snow-covered lake, as you are in the Rocky Mountains of Canada.

Canoeing Experience on Lake Louise

The lake’s spaciousness allows for a more secluded experience once you are out on the water, far from the summer crowds. We found ourselves under the shade of a mountain, and Dave captured an impressive view of the glacier that tourists on the boardwalk could not replicate.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from Canoe

Gazing back at the Fairmont Lake Louise hotel presented quite the picturesque view. It’s one of Canada’s most majestic sights, and if you can manage to stay for a night or two, it’s highly recommended.

• Staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a splurge, but if this is your only visit, it’s worth it.
• Deer Lodge, located right next door, is also an excellent accommodation option.

A Canadian Moment – Canoe Lake Louise

While paddling, Dave remarked on the authenticity of the moment—canoeing in the Rockies on the stunning Lake Louise. The water was calm and the reflection was breathtaking.

We were also astounded by the water’s cold temperature, typical of glacier-fed lakes. Dipping our hands into the lake served as a reminder of the strict safety regulations that were enforced before we began paddling.

If anyone fell into the lake, they would find themselves in peril due to the water never warming beyond 4 degrees Celsius.

Renting a Canoe on Lake Louise – The Details

The sole canoe rental service on Lake Louise is operated by the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. You can view more details here. The rental season commences after the snow and ice melt.

• Rental Rate Cost: $125 per hour for up to three people. Hotel guests enjoy a reduced rate of $85 per hour. Various packages like sunrise and sunset canoe trips are available.
• A parks pass is necessary to visit Banff National Park and Lake Louise, obtainable upon entry to the park on Highway 1 or ordered online.
• Dress in layers. Bring a sweater and non-slip shoes, as the canoe may not provide full insulation from the cold water.
• Don’t forget sunglasses and a hat; reflections off the water can be harsh.
• Reservations are not permitted unless you’re a guest at the Chateau; otherwise, simply head to the canoe docks and wait in line.
• You may bring your own canoes or kayaks if you prefer to paddle on Lake Louise.

Canoeing on Lake Louise is a truly magical experience. While two hours allows for more exploration, it’s certainly possible to see plenty in just one hour. The thrill of canoeing lies in discovering nooks and crannies that many visitors miss. Hence, make it a leisurely morning and take your time to explore Lake Louise by canoe.

Where Else to Canoe in Banff National Park

There are several ideal places to canoe within Banff National Park. The Banff Canoe Club offers rentals for canoes, kayaks, and rowboats across numerous lakes and rivers.

Moraine Lake stands as one of the most picturesque locations in Banff for a paddle. If you canoe Lake Louise one day, make sure to visit Moraine the next.

Other popular local sites include Bow River, Lake Minnewanka, Vermilion Lake, and Two Jack Lake, all nestled within Banff National Park.

Road Trip in Alberta

Our canoeing experience at Lake Louise was part of a larger Rocky Mountain roadtrip. Although we have stayed in Lake Louise and Banff multiple times, this adventure took us to Bow Lake, where we lodged at the Num Ti Ja hotel.

The Icefields Parkway is renowned as one of Canada’s most picturesque drives, and we highly recommend making your way to Jasper for an extended stay. You’ll cherish those memories for years to come!